Search on for man suspected in string of car thefts

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EVERETT, Wash. -- Detectives investigating a string of auto thefts have one suspect in custody, but now they need your help in locating the second suspect before anyone falls victim again.

Corey Johnson, 30, made his first court appearance Wednesday afternoon facing multiple charges of burglary, theft and possession of dozens of stolen vehicles.

"They seem to be focusing on the Everett-Marysville area for their crimes," said Lt. Jeff Brand with the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office.

But police say Johnson isn't the only person they're after, also looking for 30-year-old James Phillips.

"Both of them have admitted to stealing Hondas -- 30 of them or so in the last three months," Brand said.

Police began investigating both suspects back in April after multiple thefts were reported - many at storage facilities in the Marysville area including Anchorage Storage and Freeway Storage. Police believe both Johnson and Phillips are also responsible for car thefts at Everett Community College and Everett hospital.

"It appears they have been involved in at least 30 auto thefts," Brand said.

Court documents show Johnson told police Phillips allegedly had a chop shop in that Lake Goodwin/Lake Howard area, which contained even more stolen vehicles. Investigators have also linked Johnson and Phillips to several stolen pickup trucks, cargo trailers, motorcycles and a variety of other burglaries.

"We're concerned the longer he is out in the public, the more cars he's gonna steal and the more people will be at risk for traffic pursuits," Brand said.